Sevita – one of the largest providers of community-based and in-home care services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the nation – has named a new CEO.
The company, formerly branded as The Mentor Network, announced Philip Kaufman’s appointment to the top executive position on Monday. A long-time UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) exec, Kaufman said in a statement that he looks forward to being part of Sevita’s “next chapter.”
“Sevita has been a leader in this industry for nearly 50 years and has both the vision and expertise to provide solutions that expand access to the quality supports and services that millions of Americans need,” he said.
The Boston-based Sevita serves about 55,000 individuals in 41 states. Its services include residential and period care services for individuals with I/DD, along with rehabilitation services for neurological injuries, illnesses and other complex health needs.
Additional services provided by Sevita include adult day health programs, medically complex foster care, behavioral health supports and more.
“As a leader, [Kaufman] values strong relationships and a collaborative spirit, which is foundational to the person-centered work we do,” Alan Wheatley, executive chair of Sevita’s board of directors, said in the statement. “I’m confident he will steward Sevita toward an even brighter future.”
Kaufman spent two decades with UnitedHealth Group, most recently serving as chief growth officer and CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s individual and family plans division. During that time, his priorities included improving care coordination, decreasing health care disparities and lowering overall medical spend.
“I’m excited to join this impactful organization and support the incredible work being done to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other complex health needs to live more independently in their homes and communities,” Kaufman continued.
Madison Dearborn Capital Partners acquired a minority stake in Sevita in 2022. At that time, Sevita’s other PE backers already included Centerbridge Partners and The Vistria Group.
When Madison Dearborn Capital Partners bought into the business in 2022, Sevita’s carried a roughly $3 billion valuation, according to Axios. The company reportedly had $300 million of EBITDA in 2021.
Madison Dearborn Capital Partners had also been an investor in The Mentor Network, but exited in 2006.
William McKinney previously served as the CEO of Sevita. While no announcement was made by the company, his LinkedIn profile suggests he left the role in January 2023.
Growth through M&A had been a focus under McKinney, but Sevita has been less active as of late. In September 2021, for example, Sevita bought Caring R Us, Cameron Group, JEM Homecare Solutions and Good Neighbor.
A month later, Sevita acquired multiple supportive living and day center services from Chicago-based Help at Home.
Companies featured in this article:
Centerbridge Partners, Madison Dearborn Partners, Sevita, The Vistria Group
